Essay | Shame of Appearance in "The Bluest Eye"

Over time our society has conditioned African Americans into believing that in order for you to function well in this society that he or she must possess features revered towards white Americans. You must have lighter skin, lighter eyes and lengthy hair in order to be accepted as a well established person in society; Thus causing shame among those who do not possess such qualities. Shame plays a major role in The Bluest Eye. Throughout the story the characters shame determines their actions. The characters self-hatred, ideals of beauty, and, popular culture shaped the events of the story.

Most of the characters in the story are filled with self-hatred because of their appearance. For example, when Claudia receives a white doll for Christmas one year, she is furious about the gift. Instead of her adoring the doll as most young girls do, she razes it. Clearly Claudia does...
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